Ranchman’s by Marty B, a historic restaurant in Ponder, Texas, has reopened its doors after being closed for almost six years. Located at 110 W. Bailsy St., the establishment is about six miles west of I-35W. The restaurant has been significantly renovated, featuring a large Western-themed saloon, a spacious patio that can accommodate up to 500 guests, and a music stage.
Local restaurateur Marty Bryan, known for owning Marty B’s in Bartonville, acquired the restaurant and has kept the oak-paneled dining area intact since its last remodel in 1951, along with memorabilia from the Oscar-nominated film “Bonnie & Clyde.” The reopening drew a crowd, with customers lining up shortly after the establishment opened at 3 p.m. on a recent weekend. The menu has been expanded to include signature dishes like griddled steaks and large chicken-fried steaks, as well as new options such as hand-packed burgers and pies based on Bryan’s mother’s recipes. Bryan stated that the restaurant is committed to traditional cooking methods, emphasizing that they are preparing food in the same way it has always been done.
Bryan had not visited Ranchman’s prior to its closure but was encouraged to take over after receiving requests from his patrons. The previous owner, Dave Ross, sold the restaurant after retiring, having worked there for 20 years. Ranchman’s was a favorite of the late Texas author Larry McMurtry, who found inspiration for his novel “Lonesome Dove” during a visit to the cafe. Future plans for the restaurant, including a Marty B’s Ice Cream, remain unclear.
Source: star-telegram.com.
